Assistant Professor of Music - Vocal Coach
Location:University of Oklahoma
Open Date:Oct 16, 2024
Description:Job DescriptionThe Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts School of Music at the University of Oklahoma seeks applicants for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor of Music - Vocal Coach. The ideal candidate’s responsibilities willinclude opera coaching for current productions, applied opera and vocal coaching, and teaching diction courses as well as courses in art song and opera literature. When possible, the coach will also be asked to work with student pianists and conductors interested in opera and collaborative music-making. The Vocal Coach will be an important member of the opera area, and can expect to participate in planning and recruitment activities, as well as to serve on committees as assigned by the Director of the OU School of Music. In addition, they will be expected to maintain an active schedule of research and creative activities in international, national and regional settings as a coach, pianist and artist-teacher.
Additional informationThe new coach will be one of two coaches in an opera area that includes an artistic director/conductor and stage director, which produces two fully-staged opera performances with full orchestra annually, as well as scenes and outreach programs. The opera area works closely with a 5-member vocal area and OU’s University Theater production system, which includes stage, lighting and costume design. OU’s opera program provides training in all aspects of opera, and includes an M.M. in Opera. Our graduates have found careers in performance as well as teaching throughout the U.S. and Europe. OU also offers an M.M. Voice Performance program alongside of a D.M.A. program in voice performance and voice performance with pedagogy emphasis. Norman, Oklahoma is situated within a vibrant artistic community that encompasses opera companies, symphonies, and chamber music societies, as well as being located in close proximity to major artistic regions such as Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Santa Fe, all of which have welcomed OU artist-faculty and graduates as performers.
Qualifications:Required QualificationsM.M. or equivalent professional experience in a field relevant to vocal and opera coaching. Evidence of coaching experience in professional companies and in both undergraduate and graduate university programs; thorough knowledge of languages and diction, including all the major operatic languages: Italian, French, German and English; thorough knowledge of operatic and art song literature; and pianistic skills.
Desired QualificationsEarned D.M.A. or equivalent professional experience in a field relevant to vocal and opera coaching. Individuals who have special interest in preparing young singers for professional careers are encouraged to apply, and should submit, if available, evidence of mentoring and teaching in pre-professional as well as collegiate programs. We are especially interested in candidates who will contribute to the deeply collaborative nature of our opera program, and who will bring creativity and artistry to our work, including the recruitment of gifted young singers and the development of performance opportunities for them.
Application Instructions:APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:Applications should be submitted electronically through
http://apply.interfolio.com/157008. Please submit:1) A letter of application;2) a complete curriculum vita;3) 3 digital links to your recent artistic work (within the last 5 years), which may include performances;4) Contact information for three references. A coaching and teaching video will be requested for finalists at a later date. Screening will begin January 2, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Letters of application should be submitted through Interfolio and addressed to:Jonathan Shames, Chair, Vocal Coach Search CommitteeUniversity of Oklahoma School of Music500 W. Boyd, Room 138Norman, OK 73019 For more information about the position, contact the Chair of the Vocal Coach Search Committee, Dr. Jonathan Shames,
jshames@ou.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to: admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, or health care services that the University operates or provides.
Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.
Mission of the University of Oklahoma
The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.
